Ever found yourself trapped in a cycle where your boss is piling on pressure for targets that just aren't realistic? You know your role inside out, but they don't seem to understand the constraints you're working within. We've all been there, and it's incredibly frustrating. In this episode, we explore how to break free from this destructive pattern and turn a challenging situation into an opportunity to strengthen your relationship with your boss.

Key points from this episode

• Why logical arguments and data often fail when your boss is operating from fear or pressure
• The mindset shift that changes everything: positioning yourself on your boss's side rather than against them
• Practical communication strategies including timing, acknowledgment, and offering alternatives
• How to support your boss's relationship with their own manager to reduce pressure on you
• The power of follow-up and documentation in building trust and reducing micromanagement

Access the download for this episode

00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview

01:00 The Client Situation: When Logic Meets Unrealistic Expectations

03:00 Why This Creates Burnout and Relationship Damage

05:00 Understanding the Real Problem: It's Emotional, Not Logical

07:00 Recognising When Your Boss is Operating from Fear

09:00 The Role of Communication in Breaking the Cycle

11:00 Practical Steps: Positioning Yourself on Their Side

13:00 The Foundation: Empathy Over Winning Arguments

14:00 Timing Your Approach and Starting Conversations

16:00 Offering Alternatives Instead of Just Saying What Won't Work

18:00 How This Builds Trust and Opens Progression Opportunities

20:00 Supporting Your Boss's Relationship with Their Manager

22:00 The Power of Simple Solutions: Pam's Dashboard Story

23:00 The Importance of Effective Follow-Up

Useful Links

Join The Catalyst Career Club for 50k+ Leaders

Connect with Pam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelalangan/

Connect with Jacqui on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqui-jagger/

Follow the Catalyst Careers LinkedIn page for career tips and advice

Interested in working with us?

Get in touch about career or leadership development, outplacement workshops or recruitment support via the Catalyst Careers website

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Mentioned in this episode:

Catalyst Career Club for £50k+ Leaders & Managers

Moving up the career ladder needs an inside edge - strategies that allow you to unlock your full potential and position yourself as a true leadership talent.
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https://www.pamelalangan.com/catalystcareerclub